2005 Acura RSX Introduction



Since its debut in 2002, the Acura RSX has carved a solid tuning niche in the sports coupe segment, and with the important "tuner" market. Available in two distinct models-the sporty RSX and the high-performance RSX Type-S-this sports coupe serves as an important point of entry for the brand, introducing youthful performance enthusiasts to the Acura line-up of precision-crafted performance luxury vehicles.


The Acura RSX has won an assortment of industry awards including being named to Car and Driver's "10 Best" and Ward's 10 Best Engine's lists. With their high-performance engines, abundant luxury features, advanced safety and security systems, and innovative cockpit and body designs, the RSX and RSX Type-S have set a bold standard of driving excitement and refinement in the sports coupe segment.


For 2005, significant enhancements were made to both the Acura RSX and Acura RSX Type-S to reset that standard to an even higher level. These enhancements were designed with three specific objectives in mind:

• To boost the already formidable performance of the Type-S model by increasing horsepower and optimizing the 6-speed manual transmission
• To provide more precise handling and better ride comfort for both models by optimizing the suspension, steering and braking systems
• To highlight the aggressive, yet refined nature of the RSX with enhanced styling inside and out

The RSX is powered by a 16-valve, DOHC i-VTEC 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 160 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 141 lb-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm. The RSX features either a 5-speed manual transmission or an available 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission.


For 2005, modifications to the intake, exhaust and emissions systems were made to the Type-S model's 16-valve, DOHC i-VTEC 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to boost power to 210 horsepower at 7800 rpm (up from 200 hp at 7400 rpm on the previous model) and 143 lb-ft of torque at 7000 rpm (up from 142 lb -ft at 6000 rpm). The Type-S comes exclusively with a close ratio 6-speed manual transmission. To complement the engine performance gains, the final gear ratio of this 6-speed manual was lowered by 8.6 percent to provide quicker acceleration. Single cone carbon synchronizers replace double cone brass synchronizers on fifth and sixth gears to provide a more direct shift feel and reduce mechanical losses in the transmission.


To meet the demands of today's discriminating drivers, both RSX models boast a sport-tuned suspension system, which has been substantially retuned for 2005 to make the Acura RSX even more fun to drive. Revised suspension, steering and braking systems coupled with an increase in front and rear body rigidity result in even more responsive handling while at the same time enhancing ride comfort.

New for 2005, the Type-S model receives standard 17-inch alloy wheels (up from 16-inch) fitted with Michelin 215/45R17 all-season high-performance tires, which provide enhanced traction and a more substantial appearance under the wheel wells.


To complement the revised suspension, the rigidity of the body has been increased front and rear with reinforcements in key areas including the suspension mounting points. Additional insulation material in the roof and doors reduces road noise, while a dynamic damper added to the front subframe reduces engine rocking and vibration transmitted to the cabin from the engine.


go to page2